Subject: does God intend for us to pay tithes |
Bible Note: Dear Miller, I have read your post. If I understand it correctly, "seed of faith" usually involves monetary tithing (please correct me if I am wrong), and here are my understanding in concern with the scriptures you quoted: Luke 6:38 The context of the scripture does not talk about tithing. You can trace back to v30 and onward, it talks about how we should show our mercy and kindness to people. Luke 18:28-30 This also does not address the sense of tithing but Jesus requires his followers to be self-sacrifice (Rom 12:1). 2 Cor 9:6-8 The key verse should be "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver" This is pretty clear that it is not a must to tithe. (but of course a true christian could never use it as an excuse for not tithing). For Mal 3:10, I am sorry I need to dig further to it. However, it seems to me from what you have quoted here are pretty much out of the context, which is not an appropriate method of bible study. I believe that is how the "seed-faith" derived from the WOF that the teachers picking a scripture here and there in support of their movement and their focus on the reward. I believe it is dangerous, too. Believer will be led to focus on the result and their faith will be so much tied to the outcome thus limiting (within their own mind) God's grace as in the result-oriented aspect. Hope I have adressed my points clear. Shalom Azure |